Meike vs Sigma

Overview of the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II is significantly more affordable than the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary, priced at $229.99 compared to Sigma's $419.00, making it about 45% cheaper. Both lenses are designed for different camera mounts and serve specific photographic purposes, which influences their price and performance capabilities. While the Meike lens is optimized for Canon EF mount cameras, the Sigma lens is tailored for Sony E-mount systems, catering to different user bases.

Design and Build Quality

The Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II showcases a robust build quality with a design suited for Canon DSLR users, emphasizing compatibility with various models such as the 5D and 6D series. Its construction includes 11 elements in 7 groups, promoting high-resolution images, especially at an 8K quality. In contrast, the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary is built for Sony E-mount mirrors and features a compact design with nine rounded aperture blades. This makes it highly portable and ideal for photographers on the go. While both lenses are well-constructed, their designs reflect their intended uses—Meike focusing on more traditional DSLR applications and Sigma on modern mirrorless systems.

Focal Length and Versatility

The focal lengths of these lenses cater to different photographic needs. The Meike 85mm, with its medium telephoto capacity, is ideal for portrait, architectural, and landscape photography, making it a versatile choice for various shooting scenarios. The angle of view for Meike is diagonal 27.8°, horizontal 23.4°, and vertical 10.8°. On the other hand, the Sigma 30mm serves as a standard prime lens, particularly suited for street photography and everyday shooting, giving it versatility in urban and casual settings. Both lenses excel in their respective focal lengths, but the choice largely depends on the photographer's style and shooting preferences.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Meike 85mm offers a wide aperture range from F1.8 to F16, allowing for stunning bokeh effects and excellent performance in low-light conditions. This makes it particularly advantageous for portrait photography, where background blur is often desired. In comparison, the Sigma 30mm boasts a larger maximum aperture of F1.4, providing even better low-light capabilities and depth of field control. The stepping motor in both lenses ensures smooth and silent autofocus, but Sigma's larger aperture may give it an edge in scenarios requiring significant light management.

Autofocus and Technology Features

Both lenses incorporate advanced autofocus systems, but they cater to different shooting experiences. The Meike 85mm features an STM stepping motor which delivers silent and smooth focusing, beneficial for both photography and video work. Additionally, it supports electronic aperture adjustments and offers EXIF information transmission. The Sigma 30mm utilizes a stepping ring motor as well, ensuring fast and accurate autofocus, particularly useful for video. Both lenses provide modern technological features, but the specifics of their autofocus systems may appeal differently depending on the photographer's needs.

Pricing and Value Proposition

At a price of $229.99, the Meike 85mm SE Mark II presents a compelling value, especially for users looking for high-quality portrait capabilities without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Sigma 30mm, priced at $419.00, positions itself as a premium option, reflecting its advanced features and superior low-light performance. The price difference of about $189.01 may be justified for photographers requiring the Sigma's unique capabilities. Ultimately, the better value depends on the intended use—budget-conscious photographers may find the Meike lens to be a more sensible investment.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The Meike 85mm is primarily aimed at Canon DSLR users seeking a high-quality lens for portrait and landscape photography, while the Sigma 30mm targets Sony E-mount users who want a versatile lens for everyday photography and videography. Photographers who need a sharp, portrait-centric lens may prefer the Meike, whereas those who prioritize compactness and low-light performance might lean towards the Sigma. This distinction highlights the importance of camera compatibility and user intent when selecting a lens.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Meike 85mm F1.8 SE Mark II and the Sigma 30mm F1.4 Contemporary ultimately depends on your camera system and photography style. If you are a Canon user focusing on portraiture and looking for an affordable option, the Meike lens is an excellent choice at $229.99. However, if you own a Sony camera and require superior low-light capabilities and compactness for various shooting scenarios, the Sigma lens, despite its higher price of $419.00, may be worth the investment. Assess your needs, budget, and preferred shooting styles to make the best choice for your photography.